Elizabeth Duggan & Caitlin Taylor

Personal Clothiers – Marc Allen Fine Clothiers

Posted
Thursday, February 18, 2016 5:19 pm

Marc Allen Fine Clothiers, a Rhode Island tradition since 2005, continues to lead the luxury retail industry. With a commitment to raise the bar year after year, the bespoke tailor and men’s boutique continues to evolve services and goods that are unmatched in quality. Marc Allen has seen an impressive year of growth that includes a second location in Newport, a mobile showroom and the addition of personal clothiers Elizabeth Duggan and Caitlin Taylor. The clothes might make the man, but it’s these type of highly personalized services that makes Marc Allen Fine Clothiers a highly successful local business.

“It’s been a whirlwind,” says Caitlin, who joined the Marc Allen team in September to lead the Newport team.

“This is such a great time for Marc Allen, with the expansion into a new market and now with the mobile showroom.” Liz came on board shortly thereafter in November. “I completely agree with Caitlin. The last few months have been so exciting,” says Liz.

It all started in Providence 11 years ago when owner Marc Streisand opened up shop with two full-time employees. The flagship store built an inimitable reputation not only for its luxurious and hard-to-find selection, but also for its expert customer service. On the edge of the East Side and downtown, the storefront offers designer ready-to-wear, custom made clothing and made-to-measure suits in a handsome boutique setting that includes a second floor clubroom.

With a decade of excellence in the Creative Capital, along with showrooms in Boston and New York (by appointment only), the luxe retailer expanded into Newport with a location on Bellevue Avenue in April of 2015. One of the few men’s stores on the island that is open year-round, the shop appeals to discerning locals and tourists alike. While Providence is known for its signature tailored suits and sportscoats, Newport offers sportier and softer options that are fitting with the yachting and leisure-seeking crowd. A backyard courtyard completes the refined atmosphere.

In the fall Marc Allen added another specialized feature – the mobile showroom. A tricked out Mercedes Sprinter Van, the boutique on wheels offers luxury clothing and personalized service on the go. “As a lifestyle brand, we want to be where our customers are,” says Caitlin. “We will come to your home, office, country club or marina. We want to interact with our customers in a personal way.”

The personal clothiers offer comprehensive closet consultations in homes. “We pretty much analyze the wardrobe, merchandising items and making suggestions on what needs to be edited or added,” explains Liz. And with the convenience of the mobile showroom, customers can instantly see how a new shirt or pair of trousers will pair with his existing wardrobe. “That’s what sets Marc Allen apart from the rest,” Caitlin says. “It’s all about the customer experience, and we work hard to ensure that it’s exceptional.”

Today, Marc Allen is a thriving small business with 15 employees. In the age of online shopping, the boutique is offering unique concierge services and a tailor-made shopping experience. “Our entire business is predicated on excellent and innovative service,” says Caitlin. “I can’t wait to see what we do next.”